MORE than 40 local businesses from across the Fermanagh and Omagh Council District are coming together to offer a Christmas Market experience in Enniskillen this festive season.
Fermanagh's Indoor Christmas Market will take place at Enniskillen Castle from November 25 to 27, running from 11am to 3pm over the three days.
The event is organised by members of the Fermanagh Virtual Market and Craft Fair.
Rosie Keaney, from Belleek, is one of the organisers, and she spoke to The Impartial Reporter this week about the upcoming event and its origins.
She said: "My sister, Michelle McGee, had established a virtual group – Fermanagh Virtual Christmas Market – in October, 2020, on Facebook during the lockdown to help support local small businesses.
"It has been running from strength to strength, with 44 local businesses involved, where we share information about our products but are also providing support and tips in our area of expertise to the local community virtually.
“The small businesses have adopted to change by learning new skills."
Rosie went on to explain that this September, she had the idea of bringing the virtual Christmas Market to life.
"Belfast have a successful Christmas Market, so why can’t Enniskillen? I had arranged with the Castle to deliver a three-day event this year, and to bring some Christmas magic to our native town," said Rosie, noting that her family have been involved in local businesses over the past 15 years, such as Toddle In, and Castle Island, which were both very much part of the local community.
"My mum, Tess, and dad, Gerry, and four sisters were all involved."
The upcoming Christmas Market hosted at the castle will feature bespoke craft items created by local craft designer-makers and artists, alongside handmade produce, vegan products made from naturally derived ingredients, and plenty of other gift options.
"There are a wide range of businesses involved, ranging from holistic therapies to clothing, jewellery, skincare and handmade crafts.
"This is an opportunity for us to showcase our beautiful county and build on this each year.
“The vision is to have an outdoor event next year in the lead up to Christmas to encourage the community to buy local and further enhance tourism in the area," Rosie told this newspaper
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